Historic Guadalupe

Sitting just a few blocks west of the Plaza is the Historic Guadalupe district. The Historic Guadalupe neighborhood got its name from Guadalupe Street, an ancient route from Mexico, and was once a sacred site where pilgrims sought a safe voyage from St. Francis, the patron saint of Santa Fe. The Guadalupe district is now a bustling marketplace and a favorite shopping and eating district for Santa Feans. The area is characterized by historic architecture, particularly the Santuario de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, which was built in the late 1700s and is the oldest shrine to Our Lady of Guadalupe in the United States. This district is also home to the city's art scene and features numerous galleries, as well as El Museo Cultural de Santa Fe, which showcases Hispanic art, culture and history.

Canyon Road

Extending eastward from central Santa Fe towards Santa Fe National Forest is Canyon Road. Although it may appear desolate with many of the buildings hiding within walled compounds, Canyon Road is littered with beautiful bed and breakfasts, restaurants and art galleries, many of which are housed in historic haciendas (estates).

Cerrillos Road

Branching off to the southwest of the Plaza is Cerrillos Road, Santa Fe's busiest boulevard. Cerrillos Road is home to the largest number of contemporary hotels, as well as numerous retail outlets and the Villa Linda Mall, the city's largest indoor shopping center. Because accommodations along Cerrillos Road are both convenient and generally less expensive than the more historic hotels in the city center, visitors should prepare for heavy traffic during the peak tourist seasons.

Old Pecos Trail

The Old Pecos Trail extends south from the Plaza and was once used by Spanish and Mexican settlers as a main passage into the city. Although this two-lane road does not offer a concentration of hotels and shops comparable to that of Cerrillos Road, experts say that visitors with a sharp eye will be able to spot several stylish accommodations or boutiques. The Santa Fe Children's Museum -- which features exhibits on everything from ecosystems to scientific experiments -- is also located on this street.

Santa Fe Suburbs

As you head north of the Plaza, you'll encounter some of Santa Fe's more modern tourist attractions. Northern Santa Fe is also the site of the popular Camel Rock Casino and the serene Ten Thousand Waves spa. Meanwhile, the southern outskirts of the city is home to the world-famous outdoor Santa Fe Opera -- sitting off of Route 85 -- which travel writers say offers the best in operatic entertainment.

Safety

When it comes to safety, Santa Fe visitors should be more concerned about the elements and altitude than the crime rate (which is relatively low). The area's elevation and desert climate often pose health risks -- particularly altitude sickness -- to those who are not used to it. Common symptoms include dizziness, nausea, shortness of breath and fatigue. Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol and heavy meals for at least a day and get plenty of rest.

It's also best to be prepared for all types of driving conditions. Snow is generally not a problem during the winter, but drive slowly in case of ice. Dust storms are common during the summer and fall. If you're driving during a dust storm and there is some visibility, drive slowly with your headlights on. If visibility is extremely limited, turn your headlights off and pull over until conditions are clear. Flash floods can also be a problem: Signs will be posted on streets that will most likely be affected.